Shutaro Matsui

Shutaro has recently gained significant attention as one of the most noteworthy musicians in the Japanese jazz scene today, demonstrated by his winning the Newcomer Award in the Popular Category at the 36th Music Pen Club Music Awards. Though his focus at college leaned towards jazz, Shutaro also studied classical music and is a keen composer / arranger. He has performed classical concertos with orchestras, drawing attention for his multi-faceted talent that transcends genres.

Shutaro graduated top of his class at Kunitachi College of Music and was presented with the Yatabe Award, given in special recognition of musical talent. He studied under Eric Miyashiro, Akira Okumura as well as Makoto Ozone who he has since performed with on the professional stage at major venues including PMF (Pacific Music Festival) and Blue Note Tokyo. He has also performed in the Blue Note Tokyo All Star Jazz Orchestra, supported HYDE's concerts and participated in the project "From Ozone Till Dawn" created by Makoto Ozone and Misuzu Kamino. He has also performed with Ozone in his ensemble “No Name Horses” and in duos and concertos.

His band’s latest album, Danse Macabre was released in October 2024 and they begin a Japanese tour in February 2025. 

“I don't know any other Japanese artist who has such an outstanding tone and who plays with as much feeling, and such a deep love for jazz…”

Nagato Tatsuya, Mikiki by Tower Records, November 2023

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“The approach to Saint-Saëns' Danse Macabre is particularly notable for its technique, but of course the highlight is the extraordinary singing spirit that goes beyond technique.” 

Okazaki Masamichi, JAZZin, November 2024

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“A beautiful trumpet tone that makes you want to turn your head. A more expressive performance than anyone else, perfect timing, and creative improvisation. Matsui has the creativity to invite listeners into a world of truth, goodness, and beauty.”

Takagi Shinya, JAZZin, November 2024